AZT Day 28 – Bright Angel

North Rim Campgrounds to Bushcamp

30.3 miles

Mile 682.1

I woke to a chilly morning on the North Rim. Rain was on the forecast, so I got an early start hoping I could get back up to the South Rim and find my inReach before the weather hit.

As I headed back down the North Rim I decided I’d hike up the Bright Angel Trail rather than South Kaibab. This put me in a better mood, since I’d get to see something new.

I made good time down the canyon, stopping briefly at Manzanita before cruising the flats towards Phantom Ranch.

From the ranch I left the AZT on the Bright Angel Trail. I’d heard it’s an easier climb than South Kaibab, but by the time I reached the top I’m not sure I agree…it was

I nearly stepped on this guy!

The trail followed a creek up the canyon, making it a much greener affair than South Kaibab. I thought the views were better on South Kaibab, but the flora was neat on Bright Angel.

Just as I reached the top of the South Rim it began to rain. My timing couldn’t of been better! I hopped in a bus to be shuttled to the visitor center, where I grabbed another bus down to Tusayan.

By the time I reached town it was pouring, so sorry…no photos. I swung by the market to grab some grub before heading up to the bushcamp I’d stayed at two nights ago. When I arrived I found my inReach right where I’d left it. Woot!

Cheers!